#10967 Rafael Zabaleta

The drawing presents a figure rendered in a stark, linear style against a warm ochre background. The subject appears to be a woman, though her features are stylized and somewhat ambiguous, contributing to a sense of detachment rather than immediate recognition. A prominent headpiece, possibly a headdress or turban, dominates the upper portion of the composition, its folds delineated with precise lines that create a textural effect.
The face is characterized by large, almond-shaped eyes directed forward with an expression difficult to decipher – it could be interpreted as either defiance or resignation. The nose is sharply defined, and the mouth is rendered in a simplified form, suggesting a lack of emotional display. A prominent mustache-like marking adorns the upper lip, adding another layer of complexity to the figure’s identity and potentially challenging conventional representations of femininity.
The body is depicted with elongated limbs and a somewhat flattened torso. The breasts are indicated by simple curves, integrated into the overall linear structure. She rests her arms on what appears to be a table or ledge, which occupies the lower portion of the image. This placement suggests a posture of contemplation or perhaps weary acceptance.
The artist employed a limited range of tonal values, relying primarily on line weight and density to create form and depth. The repetitive nature of the lines contributes to a sense of rhythmic order within the composition. There is an intentional flatness to the work; perspective appears absent, reinforcing the stylized quality of the figure.
Subtextually, the drawing seems to explore themes of identity, representation, and perhaps even societal expectations. The ambiguous gender presentation, coupled with the stoic expression, invites viewers to question preconceived notions about femininity and power. The austere style and lack of overt emotional cues suggest a deliberate distancing from sentimentality, potentially hinting at a commentary on the constructed nature of image-making itself.